Name: Kym Monaghan-Morton
Profession: Artist and partner at Studio Thirteen
Other interests: I love to read and travel
How long have you been practising yoga?
I have tried yoga off and on for years and inevitably ended up hurting myself (usually my shoulders). I was too flexible in my joints and not strong enough everywhere else. I started practicing at Nilaya House in January of 2020 – took a bit of a Covid break and started to come regularly later in the year. So, 1.5 years consistently.
What classes at Nilaya House do you attend?
Iyengar Yoga classes – I love the precision and how much strength I have been able to build simply by paying attention to my positioning.
Why do you practice yoga? What benefits does it bring?
I started practicing yoga regularly because I had been through treatment for breast cancer and given the surgery and treatments I had lost lots of mobility in my upper body and confidence generally in my body. I suppose my body had kind of let me down. I needed (and still need) the regular movement to maintain my strength and flexibility. I also needed a place to quiet my mind. For me, the benefits have been surprising – not only do I feel stronger physically. I think it helps me understand that things will happen when they happen. It is nice to be open to this.
What is your favourite posture and why?
I am terrible at remembering all the names of the poses but oddly I like Sukhasana. Not because of the pose specifically but because of the transition from my life to my yoga practice. I also really love being able to do something I couldn’t do before – even the really subtle changes are exciting to me.
What’s your advice for people wanting to start yoga?
For anyone starting yoga – I would suggest that they give themself time. The benefits of a regular practice are gradual and it takes time to notice them. Be kind to yourself – you don’t have to be “good” at yoga. You only have to show up. Also take some delight in your body. It is fun.
